Welcome to Northwest Missouri's Mosque

The Islamic Center of St. Joseph (ICSJ) offers its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims in the SanBernardino shooting and pray for quick recovery of those who were injured.

ICSJ denounces this and every act of violence. This heinous act can never be justified under any circumstances. ICSJ commends the first responders to this senseless attack for their swift and courageous handling of the situation.

This and the barbaric attacks against innocent people in Paris shock our collective conscience. The U.S. must do all it can to combat senseless acts of violence and terrorism around the world. We must also ensure that fear does not scapegoat innocent refugees and erode our nation’s core values.

Local Muslims React to Anti-Islam SentimentThey say recent terror attacks have nothing to do with Islam

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - As many ramp up their anti-Islam rhetoric in response to recent terror attacks, local Muslim's say they are looking for people to see the real truth in their religion.

"As Muslims, we are peacemakers, said Ramadhan Washington of the Islamic Center of St. Joseph. "We are people of peace."

This comes after President Obama made an Oval Office address Sunday night to the nation asking for tolerance.

"Our success won't depend on tough talk or abandoning our values or giving in to our fear," Obama said.. "Muslim-Americans are our friends and our neighbors, our co-workers, our sports heroes, and yes, the men and women in uniform who are willing to die in the defense of our country."

The mass shooting in San Bernardino last week by two Muslims has focused increased scrutiny on the religion by many. The President's speech was meant to address fears.

Local Muslims like Washington says the recent violence is the extremism of evil people hiding behind religion.

"I'm not saying so called Muslims have not committed horrific acts or violence against Christians or other people in other countries," Washington said. "What I am saying is that I know that is not Islam."

Washington and Islamic Center member Charles Mujihad Triplett want others to understand their belief that Islam has more in common with other religions than it does differences.

"We might have a little contradiction or a little pause that separates us, but we all believe that thou shalt not kill and thou shalt not steal, honor thy father and mother," Triplett said.

Both say that educating others on the true meaning of Islam will help bridge understanding. They also grieve for the victims of violence committed in the name of Islam.

"They will be the ones in paradise," Washington said. "They are the martyrs, not the ones who committed such a horrific act."

Washington and Triplett both say the Islamic Center works well with other faiths locally. They add that they often give presentations to other groups to help better foster a better understanding of their religion.